Why Hiking with Your Dog Is a Great Summer Activity
Hiking with your dog during the summer months is a wonderful way to enjoy the outdoors and bond with your furry friend. When done right, it combines physical exercise, mental stimulation, and adventure. However, summer heat, ticks, and trail hazards require thoughtful preparation and training to keep your dog safe, healthy, and happy on the trail.
Training Key Commands for Trail Safety
One of the most important aspects of hiking with your dog is ensuring they have reliable recall and obedience commands. Commands like “come,” “leave it,” and “heel” keep your dog safe by preventing them from wandering off or encountering dangerous wildlife or plants. According to the American Hiking Society (2024), consistent training in a variety of environments is key to success off-leash on trails.
Managing Heat Risks on Summer Hikes
Summer heat presents a significant risk of heat exhaustion for dogs. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) advises hikers to bring plenty of water, take frequent breaks in shaded areas, and avoid hiking during peak heat times from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Signs of overheating include excessive panting, drooling, weakness, or confusion, and prompt action can prevent serious illness.
Preventing Tick Exposure and Other Summer Hazards
Ticks and other parasites are highly active in summer and pose health risks to dogs. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, 2025) recommends the use of veterinarian-approved tick preventatives and thorough tick checks after outdoor activities. Paying special attention to common tick attachment spots—ears, paws, and underbelly—is crucial to prevent Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses.
Essential Gear for Safe and Comfortable Hiking
Packing the right gear is essential for a safe hiking trip. Essentials include a collapsible water bowl, fresh water, a sturdy leash and harness, tick removal tools, a pet first aid kit, and poop bags. For hot days, cooling vests or bandanas help regulate your dog’s body temperature and prevent overheating, making hikes more enjoyable for your canine companion.
Enjoying Safe and Rewarding Summer Trail Adventures
At Precision Dog Training Academy, we emphasize training combined with safety awareness to ensure your hiking adventures are fun and worry-free. By preparing your dog with obedience skills and being mindful of summer-specific risks, you can create lasting memories and foster a deeper bond on every trail you explore together.
